Paletta: Italy? Down to Prandelli

Parma defender Gabriel Paletta says that any call-up to the Italian national team would be down to Cesare Prandelli.

Parma defender Gabriel Paletta says that any call-up to the Italian national team would be down to Cesare Prandelli.

The Argentine-born does have the relevant paperwork to switch allegiance to the Azzurri and, during a season in which he has attracted praise for his form, he has already indicated his availability to La Nazionale.

Reports this week are that CT Prandelli has contacted him, to place him ‘on alert’ for a possible call-up for March’s friendly with Spain, and it is one he has reiterated he will not think twice about.

“Prandelli will decide whether or not to call me up to the national team,” Paletta has responded on Parma Channel this week.

“Since I have returned from injury I have been working to take back my place and regain my match fitness.

“In these last few games I have been fine. I’m still missing a little something, but we are on the right track. I continue to work, then if the call comes, I will be happy.”